Coca-Cola is to become the new sponsor of the London Eye after signing a deal to replace France's EDF Energy.

The capital's giant ferris wheel has been a leading tourist attraction since it was introduced in 2000, when it was known as the Millennium Wheel. It was previously sponsored by British Airways before becoming the EDF Energy London Eye in 2011.

Coca-Cola will take over in January after striking a two-year deal with the wheel's owner, Merlin Entertainments, for an undisclosed sum.

Jon Woods, general manager of Coca-Cola UK and Ireland, said: "Sponsoring the London Eye, an iconic landmark that has its own unique history, will help us play an even greater part in future moments of happiness and celebration in the capital."

Merlin Entertainment's chief executive, Nick Varney, said: "The London Eye is Merlin's premier global attraction and increasingly a key visual icon of modern London, particularly since the Olympics. We are therefore delighted and proud to be partnering with an organisation and brand of the quality and reputation of Coca-Cola."

Merlin Entertainments also operates Madame Tussauds, Legoland and Chessington World of Adventures.